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Psychology News

These research articles involve many aspects of psychology such as cognitive psychology, depression studies, mental health, stress, happiness and neuropsychology, Scroll below for more specific categories.

When to Talk Puberty: Parents Split on Best Timing

A national survey reveals that while most parents recognize the importance of discussing puberty, many are uncertain about when or how to start the conversation. Roughly half of parents prefer a proactive approach, while others wait until children ask questions—or avoid the topic altogether.

Pride and Awe in Parenting Boost Mental Health and Life Meaning

A new study reveals that feelings of pride and awe toward one's children significantly enhance parental well-being, life satisfaction, and the parent-child bond. Conducted with nearly 900 parents, the research found that while both emotions were beneficial, awe had a stronger impact on psychological richness and meaning. Awe connects parents to something larger than themselves, offering a sense of wonder that slows time and deepens emotional connection.

Disrupted Myelin Protein Implicated in Schizophrenia

A new study has identified the protein hnRNP A1 as a key player in the production and maintenance of myelin, the fatty sheath that insulates nerve fibers in the brain. Myelin loss is common in disorders like multiple sclerosis and schizophrenia, and this research shows that hnRNP A1 disruptions can impair myelination at the molecular level, even before behavioral symptoms appear.

Potential Depression Risk Linked to Ozempic-Like Drugs

A new international study reveals a possible connection between GLP1 receptor agonists—used in drugs like Ozempic—and increased risk of depression and suicidal ideation, especially in people with low dopamine function. Researchers used advanced pharmacogenomic tools to identify genetic pathways that may be vulnerable to dopamine dysregulation when exposed to these medications.

Negative Distractions Most Disrupt Attention and Linger in Memory

A new study reveals that upsetting distractions significantly impair our ability to sustain attention and also linger more strongly in memory. Researchers tested this by having participants perform a 10-minute visual attention task while emotionally charged images appeared in the background.

Natural Disaster Trauma Disrupts Brain’s Decision Circuits

Survivors of the 2018 Camp Fire in California exhibit long-term cognitive changes, particularly in decision-making. Participants directly exposed to the wildfire showed reduced ability to choose long-term rewards and displayed hyperactivity in brain regions tied to rumination.

This shows a heart and a person viewing starry night.

Viewing Art Boosts Wellbeing

A new review of 38 studies confirms that simply viewing visual art can significantly enhance wellbeing, regardless of whether it's done in a gallery, hospital, or even virtually. The research highlights art’s impact on eudemonic wellbeing—a sense of meaning, personal growth, and purpose in life. From Van Gogh’s Starry Night to abstract modern installations, a wide range of art forms were shown to produce positive effects. The findings offer a compelling case for integrating art into mental health strategies as a low-cost, accessible tool to support emotional health.

Early Maternal Affection Shapes Key Personality Traits for Life

Affectionate mothering in early childhood may play a lasting role in shaping personality traits that influence educational, professional, and health outcomes. A study of over 2,200 identical twins found that maternal warmth between ages 5 and 10 predicted higher levels of openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness at age 18.

From Anxiety to Alzheimer’s, Music Makes a Difference

Music therapy is proving to be a powerful adjunct treatment for a range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, chronic pain, movement disorders, and mental health issues. Research highlights how music can regulate heart rate, reduce anxiety, and even improve communication in patients with memory loss.

Mental Health Disorders Linked to Lower Parenthood Rates

A large-scale study using Finnish national data has found that young adults diagnosed with mental disorders are significantly less likely to become parents by age 39. The most pronounced effect was seen in individuals with schizophrenia, while common disorders like depression and anxiety also reduced parenthood rates—especially among men.

This shows a shadowy politician on a stage.

Dark Personality Traits in Politicians Fuel Political Polarization

New research reveals that politicians with narcissistic, psychopathic, or Machiavellian traits significantly increase affective polarization among voters. When citizens identify ideologically with such leaders, they become more hostile toward political opponents.

LSD-Inspired Drug Reverses Psychosis Brain Damage Without Hallucinations

A new LSD-derived compound called JRT shows promise for treating schizophrenia and other brain disorders without inducing hallucinations. Developed by researchers who altered just two atoms in LSD’s structure, JRT maintains the psychedelic’s neuroplastic effects while avoiding its psychosis-linked risks.